Pumpkin power

River Park South

Chris Okell is knee-deep in pumpkins, and then some. And he wouldn’t have it any other way.

The River Park South resident started his Pumpkin Promise fundraiser more than a decade ago in loving memory of his mother, Marietta, who died of pancreatic cancer in 2010.

The initiative has grown in momentum and popularity through the years, in the same way as the pumpkins Okell secures for public display at his south Winnipeg home, located at 39 Baisinger Dr., have continued to increase in size.

“This is important for so many people,” Okell said, noting folks are encouraged to stop by his home, which has become a gathering place, to check out the pumpkins on display and marvel at the spectacle. As well, there will be a fireworks display there on Oct. 31 to celebrate Halloween.

“It’s important to raise awareness about the fight against cancer,” he said.

As well as raising awareness, Okell — a recipient of the Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal — has also raised more than $104,000 for the cause since he started Pumpkin Promise. In his first year, he raised $50, which he was thrilled about at the time, he recounted, with a laugh.

When it comes to the carving part of the process, Okell said the key is to not carve too quickly. Tools for the task include a knife, a hammer, and a crowbar. He’s grateful to many family and friends for their support, including his daughter, 16-year-old Hennesey, who has proven to be a canny carver, Karen Antle, Brett Young, and Chris Graumann.

“If anyone wants to come and see my event, I want to share the message as much as possible,” Okell said. “The smiles on the faces of the people that come to my place are amazing. I wear my heart on my sleeve when I say this is dedicated to my mom.”

People can donate to this year’s Pumpkin Promise campaign until Jan. 1, 2026.

Visit the Pumpkin Promise on Facebook or Instagram for more information.